If you’ve read my conversion story, you know that my journey to Catholicism was not a straight line. It was full of ebbs and flows. There were moments where I felt faith very strongly and moments where I didn’t feel much at all. That back and forth was real, and it was part of the process.
During that time, I came across several resources that helped me discern, learn, and ultimately make my decision. Looking back, these were the things that made the biggest difference for me. I’m sharing them here in case they help you too.
1. The Alpha Course
If your local parish offers an Alpha Course, I truly cannot recommend it enough.
Alpha is really a step one before OCIA. It’s a way to get to know the faith, ask questions, and learn more in a very welcoming and low pressure environment. It felt like the starting point of faith formation for me.
Beyond the content itself, I met amazing people through Alpha. Some of those friendships are ones I still have today, and they supported me in ways I didn’t even realize I needed at the time.
2. The Book "Why We’re Catholic"
This book was incredibly helpful for me. If you have a lot of questions or objections to the faith, Why We’re Catholic addresses them directly and clearly.
It’s very well written, but also simple and approachable. Nothing feels overwhelming or overly academic. I now buy this book for anyone who tells me they’re interested in discerning or learning more about the Catholic faith.
3. OCIA
One important thing I want to say clearly, joining OCIA does not mean you are committing to becoming Catholic. At least not in the initial "inquiry phase".
OCIA is faith formation. It’s a space to learn, ask questions, and discern. You do not officially decide to move forward until you choose to become a catechumen and commit to the church. Until that point, you are free to continue exploring without pressure.
With that said, even after that phase... you can technically drop out but you'd be breaking your promise made.
If you’re curious and unsure, OCIA is a really good next step.
4. Praying the Rosary
The Rosary is often a turning point for many conversions, and I can personally speak to that.
It’s a beautiful prayer that helps you walk through the life of Jesus and meditate on the mysteries of His life. There are also many graces that come with praying the Rosary, even if you don’t fully understand that at first.
For me, the Rosary changed everything.
5. Talk to Your Parish Priest
Priests are busy, but they are also there to help guide you and answer questions. Don’t be afraid to talk to them directly.
Having honest conversations with a priest made a huge difference in my discernment. Sometimes one conversation can open doors you didn’t even know were there.
6. Go to Adoration or Visit the Chapel
If your parish offers adoration, go. If there’s a chapel, spend time there.
Quiet time in front of the Eucharist was incredibly important for me, especially during moments when I felt unsure or disconnected. Sometimes you don’t need answers, you just need to sit and be present.
______________________________________________
Along with these resources, here are a few things I learned along the way to always remember while discerning:
Give Yourself Permission to Move Slowly
One thing I wish I understood earlier is that discernment doesn’t need to be rushed. Feeling unsure doesn’t mean you’re doing it wrong.
There were seasons where I felt very close to God and seasons where I felt distant, and both were part of the process.
Ask Honest Questions
Don’t be afraid of your questions, doubts, or objections. Bring them to prayer, to trusted people, and to the Church.
I learned that questioning wasn’t a lack of faith. It was part of learning how to trust, and is an important part of becoming firm in your faith.
Pay Attention to the Quiet Pulls
Not every sign is loud or obvious. Some of the moments that mattered most for me were quiet and easy to overlook at the time.
Looking back, those subtle nudges were leading me exactly where I needed to go.
Stay Rooted in Community
Whether it’s Alpha, OCIA, a small group, or even one trusted friend, having people around you matters.
Faith was never meant to be lived out alone.
If you’re discerning, questioning, or simply curious, I hope these resources help guide you the way they helped me. Faith often grows slowly and quietly, and that doesn’t make it any less real.
If you'd like to read my full conversion story, you can read it here.
